Even though she’s only been professionally acting for about four years, French-British actress Emma Mackey already boasts a stunning CV which includes the cult Netflix show Sex Education, Greta Gerwig’s highly anticipated production Barbie in the year that followed, and also last year’s critically acclaimed Emily Bronte biopic Emily. This is enough to give anyone Hollywood film star jealous But they’d better be prepared for her joining their ranks, as last night, the actress was awarded 2023’s BAFTA Rising Star the highest of the most important awards in the world of showbiz and a reliable predictor of the next big industry trend.
It’s clear that Mackey is enjoying every minute of it. “I’m happy and content,’ she tells us. I’ve been talking to my friends and family, thanking everyone, and taking in the love they show. It’s been so wonderful.’
Mackey has been nominated to Mackey’s Rising Star Award alongside fellow young talents Daryl McCormack, Sheila Atim, Naomi Ackie and her Sex Education co-star Aimee Lou Wood. “She’s one of my most trusted friends around the world,’ Mackey claims about Wood. “We grew together and spent the majority of our twenties with each other and it was special to be part of the same place. It’s not that common, is it? It’s also a wonderful reward. We were chuffed.’
In fact when Mackey was awarded the prize, Wood visibly teared up in pride and said “love you” to the award-winning actress. Mackey also gave her a shout-out during her speech of acceptance. Friendship goals, if we had them!
Wearing the black shade of a subdued shimmery Saint Laurent gown that made her feel confident and elegant that’s not often to me!’ Mackey laughs. Mackey was stunned when her name was announced. She admitted she didn’t have an address. “All I could think about was the long trek up to the stage and up all the steps she confesses. “I was shaking. I could not sense my arms. The walk seemed to be interminable. But, it’s okay! It’s over.’
For the party and celebrations, as per the typical Mackey fashion her party was low-key. “I attended a few occasions at BAFTA events and had a couple of drinks, met some of my closest acquaintances and had a good dance,’ she says. I attended mostly Aimee Lou Wood, Ncuti [Gatwa and Asa Butterfield. We had a great old-fashioned time.’
Her most memorable moment from the night, apart from the Award was receiving a congratulatory message by two famous figures in the business: Cate Blanchett and Colin Farrell. “They came up to thank me which was incredible since I admire them with a lot of respect as they do, Mackey says. Mackey. “It was an amazing moment and not just because I was amazed, but because they’re the individuals I admire greatly who excel at their work.’
However, Mackey remains one of the most affable and down-to-earth actors in the world – and that’s not something that this award will alter. Instead of spending the following week in the spotlight after the Rising Star award Mackey is currently en route to her home with her family in France when we talk to her, carrying her award ‘wrapped in two jumpers’ inside her luggage.
“I’m in need of a little breathing room”, she states. I don’t have any plans. I’m planning to take one week off to sleep and read, take many walks and cook. I haven’t been in my kitchen in over months, so I cannot anticipate cooking again.’ What’s in the menu. “Soup,” she says. It sounds monotonous, but it’s thrilled to cook lots lots of soup.’
